Korean Studies

The Department of Korean Studies is part of the School of Languages and Cultures (SLC).

About the major

The Korean Studies major provides a solid foundation in communication skills, and offers a range of units of study that enable you to better understand the language, culture and society in Korea. The Korean Studies major will not only open the doors to the language but also to the history, society and culture of a dynamic country that stands at the centre of Northeast Asia. Upon completion of a major, you will have developed skills in related research and analytical writing; the intermediate (or advanced) level of Korean language (reading, writing and speaking); and the in-depth understanding of linguistic, political, social and cultural issues related to traditional, modern and contemporary Korea.

Whether you are a beginner or native speaker, whether you have been swept along by the ‘Korean wave’, or whether you are intrigued by Korea’s strategic position or long cultural accomplishments, a Korean Studies major will be a rewarding experience equipping you with communication skills and broader knowledge about Korean linguistics, history, culture and society. We train you to function competently in the globalising world, and prepare you for successful careers in Korea-related fields including employment in the public service, business, and academia or to work independently.

Pathways through the major

For non-background speakers (beginners)A major in Korean Studies requires at least 36 senior credit points from the unit of study table including at least 24 credit points from Language units of study and at least 6 credit points of culture units at 3000 level.

For background speakers (heritage or native speakers)A major in Korean Studies requires at least 36 senior credit points from Culture units in the unit of study table including at least 6 credit points at 3000 level.

The units of study for the major can be found in the Table A unit of study table for Korean Studies. The table shows units of study on offer in the current handbook year. You may find information regarding a full list of units of study available to the major on the departmental website.

Beginners in KoreanIf you are a beginner you complete two junior units of study: KRNS621 Korean 1 and KRNS1622 Korean 2 before enrolling in senior units of study.

Heritage speakers of KoreanIf you have Korean parents and have any formal education in Korea, you will need to complete 36 senior credit points of Culture units of study. Please contact the department for advice on unit of study selection.

Native or near-native speakers of KoreanYou are not permitted to take Language units of study. Instead you will need to complete 36 senior credit points of Culture units of study. Please contact the department for advice on unit of study selection.

Honours

Students who achieve results of 70 percent or better in their first year Korean units are encouraged to pursue honours in Korean Studies. Admission to honours requires completion of 48 senior credit points with an average of 70 percent or above in Korean Studies. This requirement includes a major in Korean Studies and must also include ASNS3690 Approaches to Research in Asian Studies. Intending honours students should consult with the course coordinator as early as possible.